Start by updating the game and choosing the same server as your friends. Then follow quests and explore points of interest, spending stat and Trait Points through their separate systems.
Before creating a character
ArcheAge Chronicles entered Steam Early Access on November 3, 2026. The current opening scope is four classes, eight weapons and three Auroria regions: Diamond Shores, Gylden Ruins and Astron Plains. The old Next Fest demo is not the current release.
Confirm your region and server with your group. Early Access has no character transfers or cross-server play. Check the PC requirements and leave the required space on an SSD before investigating download or startup issues.
Build strength through exploration
Most EXP in the developer’s progression overview comes from quests, discoveries and points of interest rather than repeated monster kills. Leveling gives stat points; Raeven’s Coilstones supply the separate Trait Points used for weapon trees. Bring Nui Tears to a Nui Statue to increase maximum HP.
This suggests a practical starting loop: follow your current quest, investigate nearby discoveries, review your available points, then return to a difficult encounter with the upgrades you earned. It is an editorial route through confirmed systems, not a tested fastest-leveling schedule.
Solve the next obstacle
For Hands to Spare, look for the Logging Axe near Rufus. After defeating Poldat and leaving early, re-enter Cliffs of Madness to speak with Kevin at the entrance. Storage now holds 1,000 weight, but that does not increase your Bag’s own capacity.
When running a dungeon with others, obtain keys for each member and keep the party together through the next-area transition. The linked guides explain these steps and the dates of the relevant fixes in more detail.
Official sources
Checked 8 November 2026. Dates distinguish current fixes from earlier guidance.